15 Films to See in June

After wrapping up Cannes Film Festival, the summer season continues with one premiere from that festival, and much more. Including a few studio tentpoles that pique our interest, as well as other festival favorites finally hitting theaters, there’s something for everyone this month.

Synopsis: The drug war on the US-Mexico border has escalated as the cartels have begun trafficking terrorists across the US border. To fight the war, federal agent Matt Graver re-teams with the mercurial Alejandro.

Why You Should See It: Without the creative contributions from Denis Villeneuve and Roger Deakins, one can’t quite shake the feeling that this Sicario follow-up might be better fitting as a straight-to-Netflix release. However, it’ll be getting a wide theatrical release, continuing the adventures of Josh Brolin and Benicio Del Toro’s characters as scripted by Taylor Sheridan. Directed by Stefano Sollima (Suburra, the TV series version of Gomorrah) and shot by Ridley Scott’s frequent cinematographer Dariusz Wolski, this could still make for an entertaining actioner, even if it may steer clear from the clear-eyed thrills of the original.

14. Ocean’s 8 (Gary Ross; June 8)

Synopsis: Debbie Ocean gathers a crew to attempt an impossible heist at New York City’s yearly Met Gala.

Why You Should See It: It’s a little telling that the first “reactions” from Ocean’s 8 have been photos from the cast on press tour with no real comments on the film itself. Gary Ross, following up his bloated drama Free State of Jones, at least seems to be having more fun here, thanks to that cast, including Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Mindy Kaling, Sarah Paulson, Awkwafina, Rihanna, and Helena Bonham Carter. Hopefully it’ll be the perfect bubblegum relaxer after a viewing of our #1 pick on the list, released on the same day.

13. Three Identical Strangers (June 29)

Synopsis: Identical triplets become separated at birth and adopted by three different families. Years later, their amazing reunion becomes a global sensation but also unearths an unimaginable secret that has radical repercussions.

Why You Should See It: One of the most talked-about films at Sundance this year was Three Identical Strangers, which tells a story so peculiar that you’re better off knowing the release date (June 29) and just showing up in the theater. “Three Identical Strangers tells an interesting story well, without too much artistic flourish but at the same time not getting in the way of that story or overstaying its welcome,” Dan Schindel said in his review. “Director Tim Wardle lays a lot on the strength of the events he’s covering, and they are indeed compelling enough on their own to hold your interest. The flipside of this is that the film has little power outside of a first viewing. It’s the kind of doc you’re best off walking into knowing as little as possible about, because possessing key details could legitimately lessen your enjoyment.”

12. Won’t You Be My Neighbor? (June 8)

Synopsis: An exploration of the life, lessons, and legacy of iconic children’s television host, Fred Rogers.

Why You Should See It: One of the most ubiquitous, beloved figures in popular culture, Fred Rogers was looked up to by many, and now he’s been given the documentary treatment. Coming from Morgan Neville (20 Feet From Stardom), the Mister Rogers documentary recently showed at True/False, where Dan Schindel said, “The film can easily coast on sentimentality and nostalgia for emotion, and does so frequently and unabashed. Which is frustrating, since there are glimpses of a more complex human being throughout the film, one who would have made for a much better subject.” As for the look at Pope Francis, it’s directed by Wim Wenders, who has been faring much greater in the documentary field this decade, and takes one on a personal journey into his life and mission.

11. The Incredibles 2 (Brad Bird; June 15)

Synopsis: Bob Parr (Mr. Incredible) is left to care for Jack-Jack while Helen (Elastigirl) is out saving the world.

Why You Should See It: The track record for Pixar when it comes to sequels comes up fairly short outside of their flagship franchise, but hopefully the tables turn for a director as great as Brad Bird. Pulling an Andrew Stanton as he bounces back from a financially disappointing live-action feature to return to his beloved animated hit, here’s hoping The Incredibles 2 is an inventive follow-up nearly 15 years later.